NBA Rookie Ladder Week 4: The top two picks make a statement

HOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 10: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons controls the ball ahead of Jalen Green #0 of the Houston Rockets during the second half at Toyota Center on November 10, 2021 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /

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Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers shoots over Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

Week 4 NBA Rookie Ladder: 2. Scottie Barnes

. . Previous: 2nd. Scottie Barnes. 2. player. 81

16.2 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.1 steals

Shooting splits: .519/.200/.757

After a week of trying to discover his fit of the roster after Pascal Siakam returned to the court, Scottie Barnes looked much more comfortable this week. He continues to be a better scorer than anyone could have expected, and the team defense of the Toronto Raptors has thrived whilst incorporating him.

He had his best game in a loss to the Boston Celtics, dropping 21 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. His defense has always been his calling card, but being such a dominant rebounder as a rookie keeps him in earning the number two spot.

Week 4 NBA Rookie Ladder: 1. Evan Mobley

. . Previous: 1st. Evan Mobley. 1. player. 156

15.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.5 blocks, 1.1 steals

Shooting splits: .520/.235/.800

Nothing to see here, just another week where Evan Mobley is securing his claim as the Rookie of the Year. It is still far too early to claim that the award has been locked up, but Mobley has been a two-way force for an up-and-coming team.

Just this week alone, he had two games with three blocks, two games with two steals, and scored at least 16 points in all three games. In the game against the Detroit Pistons, he was a transformational force. Every night watching him is an exhibition on how high a rookie can perform on both sides of the ball.

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